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JAM | Dec 6, 2023

Long-term fix to Marcus Garvey Drive sewage woes on the horizon, says NWC

Tamoy Ashman

Tamoy Ashman / Our Today

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(File photo)

The National Water Commission (NWC) says it recently procured new submersible pumps valued at J$25 million that will permanently address the issue of sewage overflows along Marcus Garvey Drive in Kingston.

According to the NWC, the recent overflow of sewage that rendered parts of Marcus Garvey Drive impassible was due to debris, garbage and silt that caused damage to the pumps at the site and resulted in a back-up and overflow of wastewater.

The NWC says that in addition to the new pumps, it will design and install a customised screening system to prevent debris intrusion and protect pumps, and track the network to identify and remove illegal connections and intrusion points.

The utility further noted that a public education campaign is ongoing with activities to sensitise persons on best practices for garbage disposal.

On Monday, motorists were urged to use alternative routes after a section of Marcus Garvey Drive in the vicinity of Water Lane was deemed impassible due to sewage overflow.

The NWC responded to temporarily restore normal operations and prevent further overflows.

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